For a while, it looked like Auburn would hang around and possibly pull the upset over Alabama in Saturday’s Iron Bowl.

But just like they always seem to do, the Crimson Tide prevailed.

And Derrick Henry was great once again.

The Tide running back continues to prove why his name leads most Heisman conversations. On Saturday, Henry gave his strongest performance in terms of yards.

While its important to note that he carried the ball an amazing 46 times, he took advantage of every chance he received.

Sure, Henry was tackled in the backfield and had a few runs for losses. But at the end of the day, he finished with 271 yards and a touchdown. It was his fourth game of the year with more than 200 yards on the ground.

He now has 21 rushing TDs and another three through the air.

At this point, it’s hard to see Henry missing out on the Heisman despite strong performances from other candidates.

Deshaun Watson has been great for Clemson and is one of the most electric players in college football. Ezekiel Elliott has been solid for the Buckeyes, but even he thinks Henry has an edge. Check out his tweet after the Alabama game.

That comes off as a little salty and most likely won’t sit well in the eyes of the Heisman voters.

While there is clearly a talented pool in this year’s race and other worthy candidates that weren’t mentioned, there is one factor that really separates Henry from the rest of the pack.

He means the most to his team.

The Tide offense runs through Henry —  he carried on 46 of the team’s 76 offensive plays.

People will mention Eddie Lacy, Trent Richardson, T.J. Yeldon and all of the other running backs that have found success in Tuscaloosa. It’s no secret. But Henry has done everything they have done and more. He is a huge reason for Alabama’s success this season.

The SEC Championship game will still carry weight, but right now it’s clear that Henry is leading the Heisman race. He has earned it.